how about drinking?

camillegal

It's me.

Lori that was funny.

Karen when I read ur post it felt so sad. The first time u won't be with ur family. But ur right it's better just to be safe. No one really know what's going on.

I was just poopin' in to tell u about Marty's shopping. He said people are pushing, pulling going cray. Everything is gone or just a little left. I'm sorry but this is what I don't understand if everyone shopped like ordinary there would be plenty of food on shelves, and now they're hiring drivers just for stores for food. But Kohl's, and almost all of the department stores are closed now too. And cans of Lysol have doubled in price, doubled they're not supposed to do that. If everything was done in an orderly fashion these kinds of things would be better.Anyway Marty came home and I keep my dry foods in my bedroom, he brings a couple of things in and they are all wet o I aske him if it was raining and he tells me he sprayed all boxes with Lysol. I tild him we're going to be eating Lysol at this rate. While he was gone Les and I actually got into a little thing. She doesn't like how bad I'm looking <thanks alot>, my color isn't good and I don't eat.I told her I was an old white woman that all I have is black under my eyes and if she wanted color find a picture of Halle Barri, well she wasn't happy. I just don't tell her when I'm having more pain than usual, it'sbeen like this for a couple of weeks, but I think some of it is the weather too so there's nothing to do except take my meds. Where was she wen I spent 2 months in rehab and she was told I' probably never coul walk without a walker. And I don't use a walker, a cane only when I leave the house an she reacts like just call the Dr. an see what's wrong. We all know what's wrong, she gets so upset and gets mad at me cuz I don't get upset like she does. Thank you, I ha to get my frustration out so here I am.

OK on the bright side a marathon of Modern family is on today so this is goo for me. I'm so shallow.

Jazzygirl

Hi friends- seems like everyone is figuring things out with their work, shopping and the rest. As I cancelled my cleaning company for next week (they come once a month for a bigger cleaning, I keep up with the rest), I am also cleaning my house. But since I have been home for a few months, already been doing a deeper cleaning so not as much to do.

I also have been working on some pruning in the yard and got serious about cutting a chaste tree way down that was crowding my young-ish oak in a corner of the back yard. A girl and her saw got serious. Now I am after the pampas grass and large cactus. It's been nice out, with some intermittent storms the past week. Lots is blooming and although I would normally be starting to think about procuring some pansies for my pots, I won't be doing that right now (or perhaps much at all this spring).

Cami- I have heard similar stories about people acting crazy at the store. My last trip was last Monday, and not too big of a deal (it was fairly empty when I was there). I am going to wait until Thursday am this week, and go shopping early as I hit the big 60. My highlight for my milestone birthday this week. Trust me when I say I did not ask for a pandemic for my birthday.......

Goldie- my sister has not been able to see her partner for over a week now. She calls every other day and said as of Friday, my SIL was doing okay. Her MIL in assisted living nearby is restricted to her room and really struggling, so she is keeping in touch with her. She's been bossy with me, which is what she does when feeling out of control and stressed (been a lot of that the past year anyways) but I let that go and just tell her I am taking good care of myself. Everyone is okay for the moment, but some in this story at high risk. You stay safe and well sister.

Chi- I am glad your son is okay for now. I can't remember if you mentioned if his GF's job is okay or not? I hope Bob continues to be able to support the nursing homes and remains well. You stay well too please!

I think Seth has the whole thing going on- looks, personality, good actor, funny and sings too. I got one of his CDs awhile back and suprised what an amazing voice he has.

NM- I am a nap lover and think Sadie has the right idea to find a place in the sun and take a snooze. I hope you continue to stay well and have all the supplies you need to take care of your residents.

Karen- I am sorry you cannot be with your family right now. I have had two friends in the past day who have had dinner parties and/or gone for walks with friends now share there is a sick person in those communities that has been tested. They are all terrified and waiting to hear if the person is okay or not. The silent enemy......

Ill- how are things going for you this weekend? Is the naseua better?

MinusTwo, Janky, Celia C, Yoga, and anyone else my overloaded brain is missing here, how are you doing?

I am glad it's spring and we have blooms galore here in New Mexico. It helps.

Blessings to all and please stay safe friends

maryland

mistyeyes

I am glad to see that everyone is doing good...or at least a little better in illimae's case. I am still working although they keep talking about working from home. I am not sure that will really work, because all of our research is in old files and on microfiche. The stores are the same here as all over the rest of the USA...probably the world. My granddaughter is a wonderful writer, I said to hurry and get this written before everybody else does. She just laughed at me. I have three kids. Andy my 40 yr old son has a security business, he has lost some work, he had one guy at the school and that's closed so that guy is without work, and he has some stores in Orlando that he did security for and they are closed for now. He still has a few subdivisions and ATM machines. (if the ATM machines break down they call for security while they fix them). Amanda is 37 and has her own esthetician business and also does permanent makeup. She said she is still working, but her job she said is one on one and she wears a mask; and she already planned on taking next week off for her kids spring break, which is now a long school break. Christopher is 25 and he lives with me and is a Walmart greeter...or they are called something different now. He is very busy and I guess people are nice to him, what is kind of good is Chris has Asperger's and really can't read people so he really doesn't know if someone gets aggravated. lol

Will write and catch up with everybody later.

karen1956

At least the weather was nice the past two days and should be nice the next couple. Even if DH isn't up for a walk, we can sit in the backyard and enjoy the sunshine. He is much more tired today than yesterday. I think if he over does it one day, his body says slow down! Today is only day 11 post surgery and to me it's amazing on how well he is doing. The kids all keep in touch by phone and text. I'm still getting used to being empty nest. I had kids at home for over 30 years - I lost track how many more. As long as my kids are happy, I'm happy. DH and I are very fortunate to have wonderful caring, loving kids - I'm very blessed.

Times are different for everyone - we all need to stay safe and healthy.

ChiSandy

We get our deliveries "no contact:" they knock, call or text, leave the stuff on the porch, and once the drivers are back down on the sidewalk, we bring it in. Curbside for takeout.

Leslie's job is unaffected--if anything, she's getting more work. She does online tutoring and recruits more online tutors for the company; a lot of parents who are not up to homeschooling high-schoolers are hiring online tutors (if only to ensure that there'll be an hour a day when their kids aren't goofing off).

Bob got a bit stir crazy (not used to a full Sunday off w/o either live sports on TV, church or brunch), so he walked to WF for a couple of limes and a box of grape tomatoes. His partner goes in for her lumpectomy tomorrow--good prognostic markers, she should do fine. Normally, she'd be off for a week, but since all her patients are non-urgent, she'll do e-visits & prescribing from her couch while her boyfriend feeds her popcorn. (He's a retina surgeon, so he suddenly has time on his hands too).

Whenever I'm not out of the country for Passover, we usually do a small, late first Seder at home (just the two, three or four of us--couple of years ago we went out to Mon Ami Gabi for its Seder menu) and then second night at temple (a huge family buffet with lots of group participation). No temple Seder this year; and first night will be just the two of us (with cats meowing at our feet for pieces of brisket). I have gefilte fish (that stuff doesn't have a shelf-life--it has a half-life), matzo ball soup mix, a brisket in the freezer, an apple & walnuts to make haroset (instead of the weird Sephardi stuff I brought back last year from Israel), and enough matzo (last year's and this) to constipate a horse. I need horseradish; but I draw the line at that sweet Manischewitz ceremonial wine--gonna pour the good, dry stuff. Doesn't matter if it's kosher (Bob's Catholic)--in fact, the kosher "mevushal" stuff tastes blah because of the flash pasteurization.

2" of snow, and it's still coming down. CVS did a great job of having my scripts ready this morning (they texted me), so I bundled up and walked the two blocks in the snow. Normally, it'd have been a PITA but it felt strangely liberating. Mind you, I had to pull my turtleneck up over my nose & mouth, keep my gloves on, and stand on the pieces of tape 6' apart on the store floor--as well as weaving my way around the sidewalk (alternating between building & curb sides) to avoid getting w/in 6' of others. Might call up my next door neighbor tomorrow and arrange a deck-to-deck snowball "fight" before it all melts.

2017 Jean Paul rosé tonight.

NativeMainer

Good Morning, Loungettes!Happy Monday Monkey Day!Back into the fray I go, after a weekend of ignoring the world, listening to audiobooks, rubbing Silly Sadie tummies, and napping. Feeling more energetic, only slightly apprehensive about going back to work. Going to be a long day of shooting down rumors and making sure people have accurate information and dealing with people who are scared and upset. On the really up side of things, I heard and saw a huge flock of finches come through over the weekend, another sure sign of spring! I swear I saw some Cardinals, too. It's still a bit early for them, but I'll take it as a visit from above from some member of the family who has passed on who is telling me to hang in, hang on, and this, too, shall pass.

Goldie--Sadie was perfectly content!Just before the pic she was snoring! Love the cough/fart meme!

Cammy Cat--I'm so sad to hear about all the shopping horror stories. Why can't people remember that if something isn't there today it probably will be tomorrow or the next day, things aren't going to disappear! LOL at Marty spraying everything with Lysol! Sorry to hear the Leslie is acting stressed out. I'm sure she's worrying about everyone in the house, and not just you. It must be frustrating being the focus of her fears right now. Hugs.

Jazzy--Happy Birthday Week!Boy will you have stories to tell about celebrating your birthday with a pandemic! Or in a pandemic, actually. Hopefully we'll all be looking back on all this and shaking our heads in a couple of months. So far we have what we need for protection of ourselves and others. We're taking steps to conserve supplies as per CDC guidelines. We are working in a slight state of precariousness, if more than just a few staff are out of work we will be in a staffing crisis, so we're working hard to protect everyone, at least while in the building.

Genny--Love that mask!I've got a nice collection of Roses to put in mine!

Misty--Glad to hear all the family is doing well during this time.

Karen--Glad to hear DH is doing so well after surgery, and the kids are staying in touch. I know it will be hard to go through the holidays without the kids, but such is life right now, right? Like you said, you may miss this celebration but that will ensure you will have many more.

Chi--Maine hasn't really moved into the "no contact" delivery thing yet, but there is talk about it. Lots and Lots of curbside take out going on, though. Most places aren't set up for drive through, so curbside it is. Leslie is well suited to get through this without much change in lifestyle, good for her! Good idea of the store to put tape down to mark the 6 foot points! I bet the walk felt like quite a treat. Live the deck-to-deck snowball fight idea, too! We've got snow coming in overnight tonight. Welcome, Spring!

Clementine Cocktail

Ingredients

1 fresh clementine, peeled

1 teaspoon sugar (omit if using lemon lime soda instead of club soda)

1 oz orange flavored vodka

1 oz Cointreau or Triple Sec

2 oz lemon lime or club soda

Reserve a few sections of clementine peel, for garnish if desired.

Steps

• 1 In a cocktail shaker, muddle/smash the clementine segments and sugar.
• 2 Add the vodka, Cointreau/Triple Sec, and ice to the shaker.
• 3 Shake briefly but vigorously (about 15 seconds).
• 4 Pour contents of cocktail shaker into glass, top off with soda.
• 5 Garnish with a few of the clementine peels if desired.

From <https://www.tablespoon.com/recipes/clementine-cocktail/ccc6fa5b-e5cc-443b-89c9-1bab35e82783>

goldie0827

Cami, people are in a panic. But you are right, if they just shopped as normal, things would not be so bad. And yes, they are getting mean and they are gouging prices. Oh my, spraying the boxes with Lysol? Leslie is concerned with you because she loves you. Sorry about the tif tho.

Jazzy, I still have so much in the garden to cut back. It's hard on my back. I tried pansies once, and it seems like it just got too hot for them too fast, so I was not able to enjoy them long. You be careful out there working with a saw. I'm sorry your sister has been "bossy", but you seem to understand and just take it with a grain of salt.

Mary, LMBO at the wine face mask!

Misty, my grandson has aspergars too. He is 14, and really doesn't have it too bad. He is a straight A student, but has problems with noise, large crowds and has a terrible temper. What aggravates me is his parents won't explain to him why he is different.

Karen, glad your DH is doing well. He will be able to go on those walks with you soon.

Sandy, does sound like Leslie would get more work. Lucky for her. Glad you got your scripts. And too funny about the deck to deck snowball fight!

NM, you are heading into cloud of confused and upset people. But knowing you, you will keep your cool and do your best, as you always do. Wishing a calm week for you, but that most likely won't happen. That cocktail looks really refreshing.

My DH said he saw on the news, in CA, the beaches and hiking trails are packed. Same with the trails out here in AZ (Phoenix area, not mine) Got lots of outside cleaning done, my actual buildings in the Old West Town, still more to do tho. 117 onion sets planted, transplanted a dozen tomatoe plants and 2 pepper plants. The germination rate on my peppers was horrible, so I will have to buy some plants as it's too late to start seeds. Supposed to be a windy one here today, but that is spring in AZ, for Jazzy too I think.

JCSLibrarian

Good Morning! Well, it has been a week of staying away from people. I always thought I was an introvert, but maybe not so much! I miss seeing people, even strangers. I have been trying to stick to a schedule and not just sit in front of the TV. Food is holding up well and I am trying some new recipes with pantry ingredients. I made fish tacos from left over salmon patties and my own recipe for Spanish rice. Pretty tasty! There is a Facebook group showing which local restaurants are offering curbside pickup. We will “eat out” one night a week to show support. I will have my kids over tomorrow night. Gotta see family!

Raining here today so no yard work. Will do the inside stuff, i. e. laundry, dusting, etc. I do want to go to one of our state parks this week. They are closing the most popular due to crowds. My girlfriend has invited me to her mountain house this weekend. Pretty sure I can social distance on her porch!

Best thing I noticed is how empty my calendar is. No doctor’s appointments! Wish I could fill it with activities, but will wait a bit longer.

Take care

mistyeyes

I am at work and rumors are always going at work, which is sometimes funny how people can get caught up in something they really don't know, but most times its just confusing. I will see if this one is true soon, someone said they heard that the Florida governor is going to shut everything down on Tuesday night, some say tonight. Feels like we are in a movie right now.

ChiSandy

Misty, hope for your safety that DeSantis comes to his senses and issues a stay-home order.

With the last of the Chinese leftovers, DOTD was more of that Jean Paul rosé from Gascony.

NativeMainer

Good Morning, Loungettes!Happy Twofer Tuesday! You know how they say every cloud has a silver lining? I found mine. Making continuous rounds to check on everything had me taking 11,539 steps yesterday! I never thought I would get to the 10,000 step mark in a day, my goal has been a mere 3000. No wonder my legs and back are sore and stiff this ayem! At least things are calmer at work now. We got our first delivery of masks and gloves from the state stockpile yesterday afternoon.Funny, we were talking about no contact deliveries here, and when I got to work yesterday admin had institutedno contact deliveries for meals, mail, anything that can be set down outside and picked up by our staff. Refrigerated foods still have to be brought in by the delivery person, who is screened, masked and gloved, due to the time allowed for moving it from the truck to the cooler. And Sadie and I got up to almost 6 inches of heavy, wet, snow that came down overnight. Praying I don't get stuck in my own driveway this ayem!

Goldie--There is still a lot of confusion and fear at work, but it seems to have leveled off now that the CDC isn't changing instructions 2 or 3 times a day. Actually,the instructions for nursing homes hasn't changed since the middle of last week. Yesterday went pretty well, so I'm hopeful it will keep going that way, but knowing that we're going to be down staffing due to having so few residents/patients I expect there will be an uptick in angst very soon. I'm jealous that you can be in your gardens already! I can't wait for that here.

Librarian--oh, my, social distancing on a porch at a mountain cabin, what luxury! Good to see the lack of doctor's appointments, too, I bet. Love the cooking experimentation.

Misty--it does feel like we are in a movie, for sure!

Chi--Chinese leftovers, yum!

Snow on the Beach Martini

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup coconut cream
• 1/2 cup Blue Curaçao
• 1/2 cup white rum
• 2 cups ice
• Small dish water
• 1/4 cup white or blue sugar crystals

Place the coconut cream, ice and alcohols in a good quality blender and mix well, until ice is a consistent and smooth texture.

Dip the edge of the martini glass about 1/4 inch into water, and then dip into a dish filled with the sugar crystals to create a sugared rim. Repeat with 4 glasses.

Pour 1/4 of the cocktail mixture into each glass and serve.

Serves 4.

From <https://sugarspiceandglitter.com/snow-beach-martini/>

Jazzygirl

Hi friends- just a quick hi. Sounds like everyone okay for the most part. I hope everyone can continue to stay safe and well.

There was a press release yesterday that the state was heading for a shelter in place and going to be something on the news at 3 p.m. yesterday. I decided to get out and get some more food, to the credit union and PO (where a check from some work in Feb was waiting, yay). The store was mobbed with whole families shopping together (not supposed to be happening that way) and people in masks. I got what I needed and in and out of there quickly and on to the other places I could do by car (credit union, they have closed to foot traffic) and on home. It turned out to be more of a further directive for stay at home and remaining businesses outside of non-essential are to close or have employees work from home. Take out is still available at this time so my plan is to get some birthday take out from one of my nearby local fav restaurants. Still working on the job stuff and taking breaks for outside time and to keep in touch with people.

Peace and love to all my sisters here

karen1956

I'm no longer going to go to grocery stores - will all be online. I went to King Soopers (Kroger Company) yesterday morning at 7:00am for the 60+ crowd. There was a line already at 7:00 when I parked. The aisles were crowded between employees doing their best to stock shelves, and grocery buggies and everyone trying to keep their distance. I kept my buggy a the end of the aisle and would walk to get what I needed. So many empty shelves. Limitations on several items - which is what should have been for the past few weeks. IT took me 1.5 hours to get in and out of the store. Of course I did a week's worth of shopping instead of my usual every couple days. I needed to get kosher poultry and beef and Passover goods, so I decided to order from the kosher deli/market and pay the $12 to have it delivered. This morning they are having shopping hours especially for the 60+ and medical crowd, but I wouldn't have gone anyways. This is the first time I've ever ordered groceries online. I'm a pro at Amazon and other online vendors but I've always liked the control of getting what I need/wanted at the grocery store when I wanted.

Yesterday the Denver mayor ordered lockdown till April 10th ( we had been shelter in place) and closed all non essential business effective 5pm today. There was a mad rush to liquor stores and marijuana shops. I was one who went as I needed to get wine for Passover. I managed to keep my 6 feet from the person in front of me. It helped that I mentioned that my DH just had surgery and I needed to keep him healthy, had small stretchy gloves on and put my coat over my face. After an hour or two, the mayor rescinded his order about liquor stores and pot shops and said that they would be considered essential businesses and could stay open.

DH just does not want me going in stores!!! His follow up with cardiothorasic (sp) surgeon on Thursday is now going to be by phone. DH had talked to NP in the morning to ask questions. He has days with more energy and other days of total fatigue. This morning he woke up feeling good . My 6 month oncologist follow up on Thursday is still on - just got a text reminder. They have set very strict rules including no one but the patient allowed in the clinic. DH was not going to come with mine (and he's made probably 95%+ appointments over the past 14 years. Wondering if I'll get my Prolia shot?

Weather is going to be beautiful today so going to take a few long walks and sit out and soak up Vitamin D while reading.

Stay safe and healthy.

goldie0827

JCS, living where we do, on 80 acres, totally off grid and an hour or more away from anything, it's easy for us to stay home. Normally we go out once a week. Working on 2 weeks right now of staying home.

Misty, lots of states are in that "lock down" state. One of my neighbors, up in town. Just posted about a road trip to her happy place. She went to CA to see her mom, child and grand children.

NM, I think there is a lot of confusion everywhere! Yikes, 6" of the white stuff. It's spring! I hope it melts quickly. As for the garden, the only thing I am getting right now is lettuce. I only started some seeds for planting later. Beautiful cocktail, but right now I'm liking the "refreshing" ones, but I know you just got hammered, with snow, not alcohol! NM, thank you for all you do in your nursing career and for the elderly. You are truely a saint.

Karen, I don't think that earlier hour for seniors is really helpiing. If people would just shop like they normally did, everthing would be ok!

I'm going to get more work done outside today as the next 3 days we have wind. A freind on FB posted this and I think it speaks VOLUMES!

goldie0827

OH, and what really boggles my pea brain, is that this Covid 19 all started with just ONE PERSON, just 5 months ago!

mistyeyes

Wow Goldie- when I read that it blew my 'pea brain' , how fast it spread in such little time.

JCSLibrarian

Second day in a row of pouring rain. Today the added fun is thunder! I swear my ass is sore from sitting on the couch!! LOL! DH went to the grocery store and picked up a few perishables we are out of. No paper towels. Surely people know not to flush those??!!?? One son and wife are not coming for dinner tonight. They are sniffling and think allergies, but are erring on the side of caution. DH does NOT want me to go to the mountains. Do not understand that. I will drive my own car and be with two women that are not sick and very clean. Authorities are closing our state parks for two days to thoroughly clean the restrooms and eating areas. No hiking for me! I have difficulty understanding how the country of India can shut down, but the USA does not. I feel it has something to do with the Federal government not wanting to override the state governments. Some states are even differing to the county governments. Is it a leadership problem or a re-election problem? I apologize if this is too close to a political discussion.

Has anyone watched The Tiger King on Netflix? Really strange documentary about a private zookeeper in Oklahoma. Kind of like watching a train wreck, but could not stop. I have also been going through old family pictures. My oldest is turning 40 this year. I thought I would make a scrapbook for him as a gift. I guess I will start some Spring cleaning this week as I still have cleaning products and could use the exercise.

Take care and soldier on

ChiSandy

Karen, don't get me started about how the Fed. Exec. Branch is handling this pandemic (we can't get political on this thread--message me for details, that's all I can say openly). I have plenty of matzos, a canister of last year's matzo meal (staleness is no problem, as I can easily grind matzo down to meal or even near-flour), chicken broth, onions, a jar of goose schmaltz, brisket and chicken thighs in the freezer, an unopened jar of gefilte fish and all the makings for charoseth. No kosher wine, but we generally drink regular wine for mini-Seders anyway, and I use port for the charoseth. Whole Foods doesn't carry horseradish. (When we first got married and moved from Brooklyn to Seattle for grad school, Bob & I went cruising the Safeway aisles in vain for some for our homemade gefilte fish. He picked up a little jar of creamy "horseradish sauce," shook his head, and snorted "goyische kopf!" He's Catholic, BTW). We'll have to wing it with the shankbone too. And no Joyva candies either. All the area stores are already picked clean--and we have two supermarkets (Jewel in Evanston & Mariano's in Lincolnwood) whose kosher sections are bigger than most entire stores. Romanian Kosher Sausage (which makes the deli meats and chopped liver sold at Jewel) in Rogers Park (next 'hood north) is open for pick-up only. Not leaving my immediate 'hood (on foot or car) unless utterly necessary.

"A ziss'n Pesach" in advance. Our temple livestreams Shabbat services from the rabbi's and cantor's homes, and one of them might livestream their family's Seder too. Gonna be weird setting a place on the table for the laptop or iPad. (Is Elijah gonna come through the door to sip the glass of wine we set out for him, or will he be online too)?

Bob brought home 6 rolls of TP last night from the office. So we're set for a few weeks until the panic dies down. Whenever I ordered groceries from Peapod, I always ordered enough TP & paper towels to have a week or two's worth in reserve. Not exactly warehouse-level buying in bulk nor hoarding, but prescient. He gets his temp taken whenever he walks in the door of his hospitals & HMO clinic.

Bob's partner came through her lumpectomy with flying colors--clear margins, clean nodes. Lump was palpable, but might have been smaller than 2cm. So the next step will likely be radiation, then 5 years of an AI.

DODT: Casanova Chianti Riserva 2011 (LaSpinetta winery in Tuscany, which we visited in 2016 and which did a wine dinner at RPM Steak this fall). You better believe I Coravin-ed rather than opened it, despite Bob's grumbling. We have cheaper reds we can open and finish in a night or two.

NativeMainer

Good Morning, Loungettes!Happy Hump Day! I am truly feeling like I'm living in a disaster movie. Maine Gov shut down everything not essential as of midnight last night. 118 confirmed cases out of 3014 tests. 7 recovered. Testing has slowed way down, yet I personally know several people who have had someone in their family tested, many are children. I did not realize how exhausting it is to go around and around the building just talking to people and correcting misinformation and giving correct information. Thank God for coming home to a long hot shower and a long cuddle with Sadie! Sadie says Woof to everyone, by the way.

Jazzy--I'm sure shelter-in-place will be ordered here soon. The Maine CDC and Gov. are working hard to keep ahead of this thing and doing reasonably well so far, except for the area immediately on the border with New Hampshire, the area known as Boston North, where there has been a huge influx of out-of-staters escaping from Boston, New York and Pennsylvania to try to avoid the virus. That is turning into a big problem. Hope you get some goodies for your birthday, and have a happy, healthy and safe (if lonely) celebration!

Karen--Oh my, pot shops and package stores as essential businesses! Someone doesn't want to lose on tax income! Good idea for DH to stay home, hope your appointment goes well, too.

Goldie--I don't know about being a saint, I'm just doing what I do. Thanks for the shout out. I love the post from your friend. I have had to have this very conversation with a few people trying to get in the back door of the nursing home without being screened. The best excuse so far?"I don't want to go get screened because I might get exposed"I actually enjoyed telling that particular SOB that he was already exposed, and he wasn't getting in until he proved, and signed a legal document, that he is symptom free. He was surprised that screening was about protecting the residents, not protecting the public!

Librarian--There are limits on what the Feds can dictate to the States, and what States can dictate to Counties and so on. But with everyone so confused and so little truly dependable information, the best people to listen to right now are the CDC (state and fed) and the World Health Organization. Some of the island communities off the Maine coast are literally cutting themselves off from the mainland, even stopping ferry services, people only being allowed on the ferries if they have family connections and pass a very rigorous screening.Those are going to be the safest people in the state!

Chi--it sounds like you are pretty well stocked up for your holiday, for the most part. I'm guessing that there is forgiveness for the people who can't get out and get the traditional foods due to restrictions? It must be hard to not be able to fully follow a tradition right when such traditions can bring such comfort.

Rose Lemon Spritzer

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons rose water * optional
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 1/2-2 ounces vodka omit to make a mocktail!
• 1-2 tablespoon honey or to taste (use agave if vegan)
• a few drops of blood orange or pomegranate juice for color (optional)
• 3/4 cup sparkling water or more to taste
• fresh roses for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine all the rose water, fresh lemon juice, vodka, honey and blood orange or pomegranate juice (if using) in a cocktail shaker and fill with ice. Shake until combined and then strain into a glass. Pour in the sparkling water. Garnish with fresh roses. DRINK!

From <https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/rose-lemon-spritzer/>

NativeMainer

Saw this on Facebook, great example of the difference social distancing can make.

Jazzygirl

Just some music for now. Listening to George Duke today and this is my favorite song of his:

maryland

Hi girls, got to read and catch up, personally I'm having a tough time, missing my g-kids. DH and I have been cooking but now I've developed this terrible sore under my tongue, day number 3 with it, from the Ibrance I guess but it's really got me down. I can still have a DOTD but eating is a challenge. I rode my bike today, it was sunny, a bit windy and only 45 degrees but at least I got out, and walked the dogs. I'm hoping to start doing some online yoga or Pilates but just can't seem to get motivated, plus my friggin' tinnitus is really loud right now, I have to play sounds through my hearing aids all the time just to mask it. Does it sound like I'm whining??? Yea I guess, I'm just feeling incredibly sad right now.! I'm on my 7 day break from Ibrance, blood work, shots and start of cycle again on Monday. OK, but I have some really good news.....chit, how can I be feeling sorry for myself? I not only got approved for disability but it's been backdated one year! Money appeared in my account this morning and the best part is that I will qualify for Medicare next February!!! Say goodbye to $8300 deductible!! And I can chose the doctors I want!

JCS, I agree, it is getting hard but sounds like you've found some people to be with. I'm feeling a bit pent up myself. We have rain forecast through the weekend, ugh.. wish it would just warm up and be sunny. I have been going through pictures as well, trying to throw away duplicates and get rid of pics no one else would really want to look at.

Lori, I've got awhile to go before spring planting, of course my garden is 6X6 so no comparison anyway. Your friends post does speak volumes. People seem to be listening here, streets are quiet of cars, lots of kids in their own yards, people walking, riding bikes in spite of cold temps.

Jazzy, I'm sorry for your sister, so sad for so many to be alone, I have a friend with a husband in the nursing home. He has dementia, can't really talk on the phone and thinks she has left him because she's not coming to see him, not quite aware of time but enough to know she hasn't been there. DH and I were just talking about doing a weekly takeout from local restaurants, well as soon as my mouth feels better.

Kim, thinking of you friend, hoping you are spared of this crud before it's over. Fortunately you know that the mask goes over your nose AND mouth so I'm hopeful that you'll remain virus free. I filled my bird feeders today and thought it was too early for finch food but if they're in Maine they must be in Ohio so I'll put some out tomorrow.

Misty, hope you and your kids stay safe and virus free, such scary times for sure, wish we could just jump forward to when it's over!

Karen, I'm with you, I'm not going to any stores, all will be online and DH can pick up prescriptions. We have enough food for at least a month, he's been a bit obsessive and doesn't want me out either.

Illimae, ugh, I'm feeling so bad for you right now because I have only a very minor taste of what you must be going through. I can only take tiny bits of soft food and only chew on the right side but nothing compared to your swallowing issues. I've thought of you many times the past few days and am hoping things improve soon.

Sandy, Janky, Celia and anyone else I'm missing, stay healthy and safe...love to all!

karen1956

Sandy - DD#1 lived in Chicago (West Rogers Park) for 5 years so I'm familiar with the Jewel and Romanian. I ordered very little Pesach specific foods but mostly beef and poultry. The freezer will be pretty full for a while. More expensive than I thought it would be but with meat being per # I knew it would fluctuate. I just didn't think so much, but I did get one deckle roast that wasn't included in my total so I guess its really not all that much more than I thought. Doesn't matter if it is anyways.

Genny - good for you on disability and on getting medicare next year. DH is turns 65 in October and me in a year from May. As long as he is working, we will access his company insurance policy as its quite good.

DH's post op appt with surgeon is by phone tomorrow - he sent surgeon photos of his incisions as well as his weight, and B/P and pulse since he got home from the hospital.

My oncologist's office called to see if I wanted my appointment tomorrow by phone. When I asked about my Prolia shot, she said she would talk to onc and call me back. I'm not due for Prolia for week and half so I rescheduled my appointment as I would need to see him before shot anyways. Who knows what will be in 2 weeks, but at least it will be 2 more weeks out from surgery for DH.

Colorado governor put the state on "shelter in place" effective tomorrow morning. Two days after Denver and Boulder. We are going for walks and can talk to our neighbors from across the street when we see them. We aren't going anywhere! I will be working remotely starting April 6th. It is supposed to only be through April 17th but to be honest, I don't think we are going back for the rest of the year given the Covid-19 situation. It is a steep learning curve for me to learn how to be a School Psychologist remotely. My manager had an hour training for us this afternoon via zoom. There are a few webinars that I need to take and there are a ton of online resources to look at. Feeling a little bit overwhelmed!!

Stay safe and stay healthy.

ChiSandy

DOTD with leftover sausage & peppers was more of that Casanova Chianti. Bob got home really early--no more late nights, what with fewer patients to see. Less money coming in, but the staff gets paid and they & his partner get to keep their medical insurance (the practice picks up our Part B premiums--we pay for the supplements & Part D). The practice also picks up Bob's malpractice premiums too. His policy has a 5-yr. "tail" (as did mine) so when he fully retires he won't have that expense. (It's why I retired from active law practice too).

Karen, our very first apt. when we moved here from Seattle was in W. Rogers Park. (We lived in that huge 36-flat courtyard bldg. next to Fluky's Hot Dogs. Fluky's closed, and a mosque moved in. The only remaining Fluky's is a counter inside the Lincolnwood Wal-Mart). We were in that apt. for only 10 mos., because in the Blizzard of '79 the roof leaked into the ceilings and window frames--and just when we were at wit's end trying to figure out how to break the lease and move early, the bldg. turned condo. No way were we going to buy our unit: we needed more room, easier street parking, and walking distance to the L instead of having to walk 2 bl. to a bus to an L or Metra station. The closest grocery store was half a mile away, necessitating use of a schlep-cart (because we couldn't park close enough to our building to unload groceries).

It hit 60F today, so I decided to combat cabin-fever and take a brisk walk around our (double) block--a little more than 1/2 mi. Our neighborhood isn't all that densely-populated--mostly single-family homes with a couple of 2-flats toward the alley and a small apt. bldg. at either end of the block. Nevertheless, I had to dodge & weave to be able to keep my 6' "social distance" from others walking toward me. What really fried me was that not one person stepped aside--they went straight down the middle of the sidewalk. I was the only one having to zig-and-zag onto the grassy (and occasionally bare-soil) parkways, around trees to the curb edges and in some cases even out into the street when the parkways and curb edges were being used as doggy-toilets (with nobody willing to pick up their pets' poop). A few times I saw people (always millennials & teens) walking three abreast, talking to each other.

Mind you, my neighborhood is known for being progressive, civic-minded, considerate and neighborly--it's like a small town, where we all know each other, with garden walks, citizen "positive loitering" patrols to discourage crime, and block parties. (At our block party, we're all identified not just by name, but the houses in which we live are known by the names of the previous owners until we've lived there long enough to have paid off the mortgage). But there seems to be a lot of selfishness these days--Whole Foods has mostly perishables now (and no dairy). IMHO, not only should supermarkets continue to have "high-risk/senior" hours and quantity limits--they should also check IDs to keep people from coming in every day to pick shelves clean. Too bad not everyone has computers or mobile devices: it'd be a whole lot fairer if it switched exclusively to pre-order only (and waive the Amazon Prime requirement for getting discounts).

goldie0827

NM, it has to be so very scary for you. My niece is a nurse and working the front line in a hospital. She strips down in the garage when she gets home. Same with my brothers partner, who drives for Fed Ex. And YES, you ARE a saint, and I bet everyone here would agree with me. Love that Rose Lemon Spritzer, that has got to taste very good.

Mary, virtual hugs my friend. So sorry this treatment is getting you. I have never gotten the mouth sores. I only know to suggest a baking soda/salt rinse. What do others do? Maybe it's your new diet! Yay for the disability and back pay and no more deductable and the doctors you want. You can whine all you want.

Karen, good deal for your DH to be able to do his appt. by phone. I'm hoping I can do the same, but mine isn't until mid May. Actually, I take that back! Hoping this crud is gone by then!

Sandy, it really irks me when people don't move to make room for everyone. And one of my pet peeves is when people gather right in the middle of walkway to gab. Like in Wal Mart, run into someone they haven't seen in awhile and they all stand right where everyone is trying walk through. I hadn't thought of people going in the stores frequently to empty the shelves. Another idea would be to let shoppers in by the first letter of the last name. Monday A-D, Tuesday E-G, etc. And check ID at the door. IDK, it's just crazy.

I got a lot more cut back in my garden. My gosh, you look at and you wouldn't think it would take so long. AND I did some back in the fall. But I'm getting there. Windy day today with gusts up to 55. Have to go to town tomorrow as we sold the truck and the guy is coming to pick it up. Not too nervous about going, most of the cases here are on the reservation, happening from some big church gathering for the Navaho Nation, affecting the whole 4 corners region. But we will still take all precautions. I think I'll take a washcloth in a baggie that was wetted down with bleach and water, a jug with some water, soap and small towel. I have cloth gloves for us and we have masks that are actually for when we go riding the quads, dust masks.

Stay safe everyone.

The filters

camillegal

JCSLibrarian

DH and I are having a major discussion. I want to go to the mountain cabin and spend a couple of days with my friend. Neither North nor South Carolina have a shelter in place going on so travel is not restricted. I will be driving my own car and my friend has been in the house for over 10 days. She has not been out of the country or even the state for months. We plan on sitting on the porch and not going anywhere else. DH says I am risking my health and safety by going there. What do you think?

camillegal

Mornin,

I don't understand why I haven't been here in a couple of days. It's not like I'm going anywhere. Honestly everything seems just so strange. Not seeing anyone, is tough for me. I feel like we should all wake up tomorrow and everything will be back to the usual way of living.

I really liked that piece that was copied, it's so true Afew people here, a few people there going out when it's not necessary can really do a number on everything. Even the commercial for Hotels.Com has the guy sitting alone eating popcorn telling everyone to stay home.

I don't remember who wrote what here so I'm just talking like usual.Kim I know u do a lot for where and what u do. I give u credit like crazy. <as I always have> but especially now.

Sandy lucky for Leslie she has that type of a job, so that's good to hear for those 2.

Karen ur DH is doing good right??? U know I'm glad to see u back.

U gals all sound so confident and strong about what's going on. It's good to read, I'm feeling so very floopy about everything, I can't concentrate right.

Mary good idea about rinsing ur mouth out with warm salt water a couple of time a day.

I know u can't tell but I'm saying hello to everyone and sending prayers to all of us.

LUBS U ALL

camillegal

JC I'm with ur DH on this one. U never know what can happen.